TAILGATE LATCH

1992 Ford Ranger

1992 Ford Ranger 6 cyl Four Wheel Drive Manual 133000 miles

How do I open the tailgate when the handle doesn't
open it. I realize I have to fix some linkage rod problem, but I think I need to get it open first, or maybe I should take out the 3 torx screws on the inside of the bed on the tailgate to get it open.

or maybe I should stick screw drivers from the inside of the bed where the lrods come out into the strike plate?